Fasting Without Transformation: A Reflection on Nigeria’s Spiritual Exercises and Poverty

The year has started with more than 90% of Pentecostal Christians fasting for a minimum of 7 to 50 days. Beginning on March 25, 2025, Ash Wednesday, most orthodox churches will begin 40 days of fasting. Besides, these fasts are at least 14 Holy Weeks, during which most adherents strictly refrain from eating before liturgies.
The Muslim faithful will also commence Ramadan in early March 2025. This means that more than 75% of Nigerians will likely fast from both religions yearly. These annual spiritual exercises are outside our esoteric brothers and sisters in other spheres of religion who obey the law of not harming anyone because of the karmic law of whatever we sow; we shall reap.

Interestingly, captains of industries, family heads, political leaders, and public servants are involved in this annual spiritual rebirth. But after repeating these spiritual exercises for so long, I am sad to state that we do not seem to have fulfilled the rewards of fasting, as typified by more than 130 million out of over 200 million Nigerians in multidimensional poverty.

Many may not understand where I am coming from. I was at a market yesterday, and a young man approached me for help. I jokingly said, “My guy, you look clean, fit, and handsome. Why are you into begging?” The shop owner said in a whisper, “He is not OK. If you give him money, he will spend it on drugs.” I was shocked. Realizing that many are on the streets like this young man, tears rolled down my cheek.

So, each time I think about elites carrying on as if they are not aware of the danger of wittingly or inadvertently enlarging the baskets of poverty in the nation, I worry. I worry because we cannot have more than half of the people against the poverty line and do not expect something to give. It is not if, but when. Does this scenario bother you?

As you read this post, if you are also fasting or contemplating fasting, may the promise of God for those who fast right be your portion in Jehovah’s name. Arise and shine for 2025 shall be an excellent year for us all. Amen.